Response of vWF, BDNF, hippocampal and cardiac tissues to consumption of Khar-e Maryam extract and training in rats’ model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Background and Objective : Post-traumatic stress disorder is a common mental disorder that can impair memory, learning, and mood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of concurrent exercise and milk thistle extract on hippocampal tissue, myocardial tissue, von Willebrand factor, and BDNF levels on post-traumatic stress disorder in male rats. Methods Fifty five male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: healthy, PTSD, combined exercise, Khar-e Maryam extract, and combined exercise + Khar-e Maryam extract. The PTSD model was induced using a standard stress protocol. The concurrent exercise program was performed for 4 weeks. The supplementation groups received 30 international units of Khar-e Maryam extract daily. After the end of the interventions, hippocampal and heart tissue samples were isolated. The levels of von Willebrand factor and BDNF were also measured and analyzed by ELISA. Data were analyzed using the two-way analysis of variance test, and the Tukey post hoc test. Results Concurrent use of Khar-e Maryam extract and exercise intervention after induction of post-traumatic stress disorder significantly increased BDNF gene expression levels, significantly decreased vWF gene expression levels, and positive changes in hippocampal and cardiac tissue compared to the PTSD group. Conclusion The findings indicate that concurrent exercise with Khar-e Maryam extract supplementation can have a synergistic effect in improving hippocampal and cardiac function and regulating BDNF and vWF gene expression levels in an animal model of PTSD. Accordingly, non-pharmacological interventions such as regular physical activity and consumption of medicinal herbs can be effective in improving outcomes related to PTSD.